In a very surprise move Google has today announced ending the works with Nest program. The program will be replaced with the Works with Google framework. This is because Nest is merging back into the Google brand and company, rather than being a separate spin off.
The Works with Nest program was designed to allow tech to connect to Nest. As Google said:
“All you need is a Nest Thermostat, Nest Protect or Nest Cam. Add another product, like a light bulb, and they’ll start to notice each other, learn from one another and help you out – all on their own”
Google
The new program will still allow integrations but will require much stricter vetting and testing, not necessarily a bad thing! Google claim this has been done to address privacy fears.
However, the bad news is this will break all existing integrations powered by the existing program. This includes the much loved IFTTT as well as Amazon Alexa. Although we remain optimistic Google will find a way to integrate Alexa directly.
Works with Nest will be fully shut down on August 31 2019. We wait to see what updates we receive from IFTTT and Alexa.